For Ellwood City native Renee Watterson, dance has always been more than just movement — it’s been a source of creativity, discipline, and joy. Now, she’s ready to share that passion with her community through her brand-new studio, Inspire by Movement, opening this fall at 2656 Ellwood Rd, Suite 112, New Castle.
The studio, which will officially kick off its first season the week of September 15, is a dream come true for Watterson. “Dance has been a constant in my life. I couldn’t imagine my life without Dance being a part of it. I absolutely love the creative aspect of it. That’s where I come alive and thrive! I appreciate the discipline that dance provides. There’s something to be said for hard work and dedication. If you want to be rewarded, you have to put in the effort and the work. I want to be a positive example in the lives of these young people, and show them what it means to be part of a successful team.”
Born and raised in Ellwood City and a graduate of Lincoln High School, Watterson says she never considered opening her studio anywhere else. “The people in this area have had such an impact in my life. This is a special place to live, and special people in the community. I wanted to give back to my community because they’ve always been so supportive in my dance journey since I was young. Our youth and children need to have places to go, and supportive and encouraging environments to where they can thrive and be uplifted. That’s the goal and purpose of why I’m starting my studio. There are so many life lessons that you can learn inside a dance studio in addition to dance steps and strong technique that will prepare you for life and your future down the road.”
Watterson is no stranger to the wider dance world. In addition to her new studio, she runs All Out Dance Competition, which brings dancers together from across the northeastern U.S. She is also certified by Dance Masters of America to teach both jazz and tap, setting her apart from other local studios. But while her accomplishments are impressive, her motivation remains deeply personal.
“My daughter Mila is my biggest inspiration,” she shared. “I want her to see that nothing is handed to you. Hard work and dedication matter. I want her to know you can go after your dreams and turn them into reality.”
Watterson admits that launching a new business comes with challenges, but she embraces the lessons that come with them. “There are gonna be hurdles. There are gonna be obstacles. Don’t let that defeat you. Use that as your motivation to keep going! Don’t give up on something that you wanna do.”
The studio’s name, Inspire by Movement, reflects her vision. “The word inspire means to encourage and motivate others,” she said. “If I can inspire young people to discover the art and love of dance in themselves, I’ll consider myself successful.”
Registration for classes is open now at www.inspirebymovement.com, with classes beginning in mid-September. Updates and announcements can also be found on the studio’s Facebook and Instagram pages.
“This is about more than dance,” Watterson added. “It’s about creating a place where kids can feel encouraged, supported, and inspired — and that’s something I’ve always wanted to give back to the community.”
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